Nintendo Switch Online launches today; Are you ready

While today is the day that Nintendo’s Switch Online service finally starts up, the service won’t be available just yet. Instead, you can expect the service to go online later this evening at 8 PM PT / 11 PM ET. Hopefully, we won’t have to wait too long to play Super Mario Bros. 3, online.

While you’re waiting, let’s get you up to speed on what you can except for when the service is online. First and most importantly, all of the games you were previously playing online will now need a subscription. Meaning those late night sessions of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will be over if you don’t pick up a subscription. Thankfully, the options for getting online aren’t that expensive.

If you choose to pay monthly, Nintendo Switch Online will cost US$3.99 for a one-month subscription, US$7.99 for a three-month subscription, and US$19.99 for a full year subscription. There is also a family option for US$34.99, which gives yearly access for up to seven family members. Nintendo will also offer a 7-day free trial for new subscribers starting next week.

You’ll be able to pick up any of these subscription cards on Amazon, Best Buy or Nintendo’s eShop.

You’ll need to also make sure that you have linked the correct Nintendo account to your Switch. Remember, once you update your Switch to version 6.0, which releases with the Nintendo Switch Online service, you won’t be able to change it. So double check that if you aren’t sure about it.

You’ll also need to make sure your Nintendo Switch has been updated to system update 6.0. For more of what you can expect from the Nintendo Switch Online service, be sure to check out our FAQ, here.

However, it’s not all Super Mario Sunshine, as there’s a bit of issue surrounding the cloud solution for the service. As it stands Nintendo isn’t allowing certain games, such as Splatoon 2, to have cloud saves. Meaning if your Switch gets broken, stolen or lost, you can kiss your progression bye-bye. Here’s hoping Nintendo changes their mind about that.

Lastly, you can expect many of your current games to receive updates so that they’ll work with the service. We don’t have a list as to what, but we’ll update this when we find out more.

Alright, you’re now primed and ready to go. We’ll see you online!

About The Author

Keith Mitchell is the Founder and Editor in Chief of The Outerhaven. A grizzled IT professional during the day, but a passionate lover of video games after his 9-5 grid. Loves playing the Dark Souls series and has been gaming since he was 6 years old. Available for podcasts upon request.